Nell Gwynne Tavern, Covent Garden

1-2 Bull Inn Court, Strand, London, WC2R 0NP

I recently visited the Adelphi Theatre on the Strand where I was lucky enough to watch Michael Ball and Imelda Staunton perform in Sweeney Todd. During the interval we managed to squeeze in a visit to the Nell Gwynne to knock back a quick glass of plonk.

I can't think of a more apt place to spend 15 minutes mid-way through a Victorian horror story. Located just outside the theatre's stage door, entering this alleyway pub really feels as if you've stepped back in time.

Sadly you're unlikely to get a seat in here most nights as it is absolutely tiny, but I'd very much recommend an interval visit if you are at the Adelphi - much more character (and cheaper!) than the theatre's own bars.

Cosy rating: 8/10 - Dimly lit and full of olde-worlde paraphernalia.
Secret rating: 5/10 - I must have walked past this alleyway hundreds of times over the years, but never spotted the Nell Gwynne. Sadly, plenty of others have done, and even on a Tuesday night it doesn't take much for this pub to fill up.
Best bits: If you do go here during an interval look out for people dressed in black - chances are they are stage hands or musicians from the Adelphi who have also popped in for a quick interval drink, which also explains why groups dressed in black tend to get served first during this brief window.
Worst bits: The lavatories are located down an incredibly steep and narrow staircase.

Tapster, near St James's Park

3 Brewers Green, Buckingham Gate SW1H 0RH

Like many of the other Davy's wine bars in London (and more to feature on this blog soon), Tapster manages to feel rustic and warm despite being located underneath a rather unattractive office block.

This modest underground establishment isn't going to win any awards for uniqueness, but it is a reliable little drinking hole, with lots of little tables, some closed-off private dining areas and a wide range of wines to choose from.

I really like the Davy's chain, and like all of the Davy's bars I've visited so far, Tapster is a great place to kick back and relax after a long day.

Cosy rating: 8/10 - candles, roses, bare bricks and a very nice vibe.
Secret rating: 8/10 - I expect office workers in the area have this gem to themselves on most nights.
Best bits: If you have a Taste Card you get 50% off food for two people Monday - Friday.
Worst bits: A disappointingly small dessert menu.